Stone Lantern Inside the West Gate, Naju

Culture / PeriodGoryeo Dynasty (1093)

Materialsstone

DimensionsH. 3.2cm

DesignationTreasure No. 364

Accession NumberBongwan 12805

This stone lantern was in a severly damaged condition when it was discovered at a temple site inside the West Gate at the site of the walled town of Naju in Jeollanam-do. There is an inscription on the lantern’s pillar which states that it was erected in 1093 (the 10th year of the reign of King Seonjong of the Goryeo Dynasty). It was restored during the early 20th century when Korea was under Japanese colonial rule, reviving the roof with dangling ornaments and “corner flowers”. It is now regarded as a fine example of the octagonal stone lanterns that reached a peak of stylistic perfection during the Goryeo Period.